End of year reflections tend to focus on momentous events and the stunning ineptitude in handling them by the politicians who are meant to lead us.
However, my reflection this year is centred on a more positive example of leadership, especially as it fits so closely with the teachings of John Adair, my favourite leadership writer (and whose works feature in Thorogood Publishing’s fascinating and rewarding business book list).
I want to look at, of all things, Saracens, the rugby stars of the 2015/16 Premiership season and 2016 Champions of Europe.
When I reflect on John Adair’s holy trinity of TASK, TEAM, INDIVIDUAL, I am struck by how well team Saracens comes to exemplifying the theory and practice of his teachings.
This comes through in the summary of their approach that is even laid out and displayed on the clubroom walls at Allianz Park. It is set out in four columns, as follows:
HONESTY
Live the values, don’t just talk
Embrace, don’t resent, other opinions
Be honest with yourself first
Only expect what you are willing to give
DISCIPLINE
Do the right thing at the right time
Know your individual role and responsibility
Maintain self-control, actively influence others
Promote and defend our culture – always
WORK RATE
Earn respect by working hard
Always out-work the opposition
Inspire others by striving for new levels
Always be ready to do TSPDS (The sh*t people don’t see)
HUMILITY
Be humble in victory, gracious in defeat
Accept the group matters more than you
Enjoy the ride because it can end at any time
Respect everybody’s contribution
I think you’ll agree that they form a good set of values – and have created a winning culture. Business and Politics would do well to copy them.
Posted on December 21 2016 by Neil Thomas
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